Safety Codes Bulletin - Summer 2026

Calculated Loads & EVEMS (CEC 8-200 / 8-500)

Certified contractors are reminded that calculated load determinations in accordance with CEC Rule 8-200 must be completed prior to permit issuance when adding significant electrical loads. 

This ensures the existing service can safely and legally accommodate the additional demand.

This applies to installations such as hot tubs, EV supply equipment (EVSE), basement suites, electric heating, and other large loads. Failure to complete a calculation may result in permit delays, failed inspections, or non-compliant installations.

Templates are available to guide contractors through the Rule 8-200 calculation process step-by-step. Use of these templates is strongly recommended to improve accuracy, consistency, and review timelines.

Where the calculated load exceeds the service rating, contractors have two compliant options: upgrade the service or install an energy management device.

CEC Rule 8-500 (introduced in the 2021 Code) permits the use of energy management systems to control demand within the existing service. These systems monitor current on the service mains and, when demand reaches approximately 80% of service capacity, will automatically disconnect the controlled load. The load is restored once demand drops below the threshold and remains stable (typically about 15 minutes).

When installed and compliant with Rule 8-500, the controlled load is not required to be included in the calculated load, allowing installations such as EVSE, hot tubs, and other large loads to proceed without a service upgrade.

Key reminder: complete load calculations early, verify service capacity before applying for permits, and ensure any energy management systems meet all applicable code requirements.

Demolition permit requirements

The following information outlines the minimum requirements for obtaining a demolition permit in the region. It is intended to assist contractors, property owners, and authorized agents in navigating the application and compliance process, ensuring that all demolition activities are conducted safely and in accordance with applicable regulations.

When is a demolition permit required?

A demolition permit is required prior to the removal or demolition of:

• Residential buildings (single-family, multi-family, manufactured homes)
• Commercial, industrial, or institutional structures
• Accessory buildings (may require confirmation depending on size/use)

Note: Partial demolition (structural components) may also require a permit.

Application requirements

A complete demolition permit application must include:

• A completed application form signed by the property owner or authorized agent
• Proof of ownership / authorization (i.e., a current land title or written authorization from the registered owner)
• A site plan showing property boundaries, the location of structure(s) to be demolished, and adjacent buildings and setbacks.
• Utility disconnect confirmation - Written confirmation that all services have been safely disconnected and capped:
  • Electrical (electrical provider or certified electrician)
  • Natural gas (utility provide)
  • Water and sewer (RMWB water and wastewater services)

Hazardous materials and environmental requirements

Prior to demolition, the applicant must complete the following:

• Designated Substance / Hazardous Materials Assessment
  • Required for most structures (especially pre-1990 buildings)
  • Must identify materials such as:
    • Asbestos
    • Lead-based paint
    • PCB-containing equipment
• Abatement requirements
  • Hazardous materials must be removed in accordance with:
    • Alberta Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation
    • Applicable environmental regulations
• Waste disposal
  • All demolition debris must be disposed of at approved facilities
  • Recycling is encouraged where feasible

Additional approvals (if applicable)

Depending on the property and structure, additional approvals may be required:

• Development permit (if required under the Land Use Bylaw)
• Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (for contamination concerns)
• Alberta Health Services (septic systems, where applicable)
• Historical Resource Clearance (if applicable)
• Road Use / Traffic Control Plan (for large projects)

Site safety and requirements

During demolition, the permit holder must ensure:

• Site is secured (fencing/barriers where required)
• Dust control measures are implemented
• Debris is contained and not allowed to migrate off-site
• Adjacent properties and municipal infrastructure are protected

Inspections

An inspection may be required:

• Prior to demolition (verification of disconnections and abatement)
• After demolition completion to confirm:
  • Site is cleared
  • Foundations are removed or properly addressed
  • Excavations are filled and graded safely

Post-Demolition Requirements

Upon completion:

• Site must be left in a safe and graded condition.
• Any open excavations must be backfilled.
• Property must comply with RMWB Unsightly Premises and Land Use Bylaws.

Important notes

• Work must not begin until the permit has been issued.
• Permits may be subject to conditions.
• Failure to comply may result in stop work orders, fines, or enforcement action.

For more information, or to apply, visit rmwb.ca. 

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only. Applicants are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable municipal bylaws, provincial legislation, and federal requirements.

Service Connection (SC) permits

With the influx of commercial projects this summer, we want to make all contractors aware that Service Connection (SC) permits are required when connecting from municipal services within 1 meter of a building.

RMWB Engineering Standards should also be reviewed before the start of any project. Notable requirements include bracing/thrust blocks, cathodic protection, etc. From the standards:

7.11 THRUST RESTRAINT
Pressure pipe thrust restraint is required at all fittings, including bends, tees, wyes, reducers, plugs, caps, hydrants (tee, valve and boot), and valves. Concrete thrust blocks shall be used, as per the standard details. Wrap all cast iron fittings in polyethylene sheet to prevent direct contact between the concrete and the cast iron. As an alternative to, or in conjunction with, concrete thrust blocks, all fittings can be mechanically restrained using pipe restraints. Restraints must be designed and installed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications, including consideration for the additional joints to be restrained to achieve the restrained length. Wrap all threaded rod, nuts and bolts in tape and paste.

Underground Gas Lines

With the new 2025 CSA B149.1 Gas code in affect, some new code articles related to underground lines are required. In the past, there was no mention of gas lines sharing trenches with electrical cables in the Gas Code. Sharing of a trench was permitted and lines could be separated by wooden planks. This is no longer permitted. Gas lines must now be a minimum of 12 inches from an electrical cable.

6.15.15 Common trench
When underground piping or tubing share a common trench with underground electrical systems, a minimum separation of 12 in (300 mm) shall be maintained between the gas system and the electrical system.